Interview: Sharaya J, The New Protege Of Missy Elliott Speaks On Her Future, Janet Jackson & Being Told Her Image Is Not “Sexed Up” Enough

We recently sat down with the B.A.N.J.I. fashioned, Wilhelmina model, Sharaya J who is Missy Elliott‘s new protegé, right before she performed as part of Missy’s headline set at the UK Bestival.

The 31-year old Hawaiian-born American entertainer is best known for her single hits, “B.A.N.J.I.” and “Smash Up the Place,” speaks on set details of her performance alongside her mentor Missy and how it’s one of her life goals to open for Janet Jackson‘s while she is on tour… Well she might just be in luck as Janet’s latest single ‘BURNITUP!’ features Missy Misdemeanor and we livin’ for the fact that they WILL perform that song together!

Sharaya J confirms that Elliott & Jackson are set to film a visual for their collab single which is exciting news for fans!

Sharaya most recently, this week, featured in Missy’s new music video ‘WTF (Where They From),’ featuring Pharrell Williams, with a dance cameo – and of course, she shut it down… But were not surprised, as the Jersey City raised performer kick-started her career within the dance industry and has danced for the likes of Diddy, Rihanna, Ciara and Alicia Keys… just to name a few and worked with top Hip-Hop/ R&B choreographers like Laurianne Gibson, Fatima Robinson and Jamaica Craft. Sharaya J goes on to speak on how her father helped expose her to the life of a Hip-Hop artist, which was easy for him being a member of 90’s Hip Hop group Double XX Posse.

“I would say if you’re ready for something refreshing and creative you should most definitely look out for Sharaya J! She’s the future…10s across the board!” – Missy Elliott

Sharaya J offers a refreshing style and sound that is evidently influenced by 90s Hip-Hop, Miami Bass and Jersey Club music. What is the B.A.N.J.I. movement?! Sharaya speaks further on the birthing of her movement, with the acronym Be Authentic Never Jeopardize Individuality, which encourages the masses to embrace love for themselves.